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In one of our more recent webcasts, Ron Lichtsinn reviewed the 2020 Winnebago Revel built on the new Mercedes-Benz VS30 chassis. You can watch our webcast here. In that webcast, we took several questions LIVE about the Winnebago Revel and what has changed between the 2020 and the 2019.

“What are the standard wheels vs. the optional wheels and are the tires the same?

The Revel features the Method 701 performance wheel upgrade paired with the BF Goodrich TA KO2 all terrain tires. The wheels include bead grip technology to seat the bead while running with lower air pressures, a reinforced inner lip, and are one piece cast 356 aluminum with T6 heat treatment. The BF Goodrich TA KO2 all-terrain tires are the perfect pairing with the new wheels since they feature a longer tread life in dry pavement conditions, with aggressive all terrain traction perfect for gravel, rocky and snowy conditions. Watch our video as we review the tires and wheels here.

“How is the air conditioner different from previous models?”

In the 2020 Winnebago Revel, the ultra-quiet Coleman-Mach non-ducted quiet (NDQ) air conditioner is the optional air conditioner available in the Winnebago Revel. It expected to be 8 – 10 decibels quieter than previous models.

“What is the fuel economy with the new transmission?”

With the new seven-speed automatic 7G Tronic Plus transmission, the Revel is expected to get 18 mpg highway. Our guests have said they got 16 – 22 mpg depending on terrain and how much they were traveling with.

“How does the power sliding door work?”

The power sliding door in the 2020 Revel is a standard feature and can be switched on or off. The automatic door can be activated from the exterior sliding door handle, a button in the cab or by using the fob. And yes, you can leave the key in the vehicle and still unlock it.

“What are the exterior options?”

The 2020 Winnebago Revel is available in Silver, Pebble Gray, and Blue Gray full-body paint with an optional graphics package.

“How does the Rolef Screen work?

New to the 2020 Winnebago Revel is the innovative Rolef side and rear screen door. The side screen door is attached by a strong magnet, so you can open it without having to unzip or slide a finicky screen door. The rear screen door is a full blackout screen with zippered window to provide great airflow to the coach. At the bottom of the screen you can also roll it up and still have access to storage in the rear. Watch our video on the Rolef screens here.

“How are the cab seats different in the new Revel?”

The Revel’s comprehensive safety features include thoracic airbags placed in the driver and passenger seat. For those airbags to properly operate they need to be in either cloth, or in the case of the 2020 Winnebago Revel, synthetic leather. The seats are also extremely easy to swivel and adjustable. New this year, Mercedes-Benz added an adjustable, extended seating for taller drivers.

“What are the options for running the air conditioner when not connected to shore power?

As we previously mentioned, the 2020 features a new, quieter air conditioner. The air conditioner must be connected to shore power either through campground electrical or a generator. For the A/C to run off a generator, you have to install a quick start (watch our video here to learn more). The Revel features wonderful air flow through the rolef screens, awning style windows, and ventilator fans if you prefer no air conditioning.

“Does Lichtsinn RV stock a plug and play solar panel for the portable port on the side of the Revel?”

Yes, we carry a plug and play solar panel for the Winnebago Revel in our parts store. It is a 140-watt panel for $700.

Designed specifically for active outdoor enthusiasts, the all new Winnebago Revel takes a no-nonsense approach to adventure with a straightforward design and function driven features. Taking full advantage of the proven 4×4 Mercedes Benz Sprinter chassis, the Revel’s 3.0 litre turbo diesel puts 325 lbs. ft. of torque through an on demand 4WD system, complete with high and low range and hill descent mode for added off road capability.

New to the 2020 Winnebago Revel is the innovative Rolef side and rear screen door. The side screen door is attached by a strong magnet, so you can open it without having to unzip or slide a finicky screen door. The rear screen door is a full blackout screen with zippered window to provide great airflow to the coach. At the bottom of the screen you can also roll it up and still have access to storage in the rear.

Recently, a Toy Story 4 themed Winnebago Vita was parked outside the Forest Theatre in Forest City, Iowa celebrating the opening of Toy Story 4. In Toy Story 4, Woody, Buzz Lightyear and the rest of the gang embark on a road trip with Bonnie and a new toy named Forky. The adventurous journey turns into an unexpected reunion as Woody’s slight detour leads him to his long-lost friend Bo Peep. As Woody and Bo discuss the old days, they soon start to realize that they’re worlds apart when it comes to what they want from life as a toy.

Go RVing is teaming up with Disney and Pixar in celebration of “Toy Story 4” to launch an integrated marketing campaign to inspire RV travel that takes family and friends on unforgettable adventures – just like Bonnie’s family and the “Toy Story 4” friends. RV road trip adventures are as much about forming unbreakable bonds as the travel itself. Now in its 22nd year, Go RVing challenges Americans to ‘find their away’ and pursue their passions more frequently when they travel by RV.

In the spirit of March Madness, we at Lichtsinn RV will be comparing various Winnebago motorhome models. The first in our March Motorhome Madness is the Travato versus Revel. Both the Travato and the Revel have off-grid capabilities and are small and agile Class B motorhomes.

Winnebago Travato

Based on the powerful, fuel efficient ProMaster chassis, the Travato has been at the forefront of the van life revolution since its launch. Estimated to achieve 18 to 22 mpg highway, at only 21 feet long the Travato offers all of the comforts of home in a nimble, efficient van.

The Winnebago Travato comes in four floorplans – the 59G, 59K, 59GL, and 59KL. Based on the powerful, fuel-efficient Ram ProMaster chassis, the Travato has been at the forefront of the camper van revolution since its launch in 2014. Thanks to premium features such as the energy-saving Truma Combi eco plus heating, the Deluxe FROLI sleeping system and Corian countertops, the new Travato is better than ever. With significantly upgraded standard features like 200-watt solar panels and new interior décor colorways, alongside several options, you can tailor the Travato to suit your needs.

The Travato 59K and 59KL feature swiveling cab seats that become an integral part of the living and dining space, two twin beds that convert into cross-coach sleeping, and a spacious rear bath with wardrobe. The Winnebago Travato 59K and 59KL are 21 feet long, with an interior height of 6 ft. 3 in., and holding tank capacities of 13 gal. (black) in the 59K and 12 gal. (black) in the 59KL and 13 gal. (gray) in both the 59K and 59KL.

The Travato 59G and 59GL feature a spacious corner bed and corner wet bath, swiveling cab chairs that join the dinette to form a seating area for up to four. The Winnebago Travato 59G and 59GLhave seating and sleeping for up to four compared to the 59K and 59KL that have sleeping and seating for two.

Specification

59G

59GL

59K

59KL

Length

21′

21′

21′

21′

Exterior Height

9’4″

9’4″

9’4″

9’4″

Exterior Width

6’9″

6’9″

6’9″

6’9″

Awning Length

13′

13′

13′

13′

Interior Height

6’3″

6’3″

6’3″

6’3″

Interior Width

6’2″

6’2″

6’2″

6’2″

Freshwater Tank Capacity (gal.)

21

18

23

18

Water Heater Capacity (gal.)

2.6*

2.6*

2.6*

2.6*

Holding Tank Capacity – Black

11

11

13

12

Holding Tank Capacity – Gray

15

15

13

13

LP Capacity (gal.)

6

6

6

6

Fuel Capacity (gal.)

24

24

24

24

GCWR (lbs.)

11,500

11,500

11,500

11,500

GVWR (lbs.)

9,350

9,350

9,350

9,350

GAWR – Front (lbs.)

4,630

4,630

4,630

4,630

GAWR – Rear (lbs.)

5,291

5,291

5,291

5,291

Wheelbase

159″

159″

159″

159″

Seating Capacity

4

4

4

4

And now, the Travato also offers the most powerful, durable and easy-to-use lithium energy system in the RV industry.

The Pure3 Energy Management System comes standard in the Travato 59GL and 59KL. This best-in-class system is U.S. built in partnership with Volta Power Systems, helping RVers “cut the cord.” Pure3 is built with advanced engineering and a simple user interface so you can have confidence and peace of mind as you travel down the road. The 48V automotive-grade lithium energy storage pack provides up to 8,700-watt hours of energy, and powers all coach appliances. Designed for reliability, the Pure3 system makes replenishing power fast, simple, and available through multiple charging options. The 58V alternator, although compact in size, packs a punch and quickly charges the pack as you drive. Pulling off for the night is stress-free with this advanced lithium system that meets all your power needs without requiring power hookups or the use of a generator.

This fully integrated system includes a powerful 3,600-watt pure sine inverter that offers 30 amps. of power at any time, powering air conditioning and appliances wherever you go. The best part of this hassle-free system is that it operates on the push of a button and a simple analog gauge that tells you how much energy remains. With the same automotive-grade technology used in hybrid vehicles and EV applications, this newly advanced lithium energy system provides better value, ease of use, and confidence as you travel, live, work, and play.

Designed specifically for active outdoor enthusiasts, the all new Winnebago Reveltakes a no nonsense approach to adventure with a straightforward design and function-driven features. Taking full advantage of the proven 4×4 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis, the Revel’s 3.0 litre turbo diesel puts 325 lbs ft of torque through an on-demand 4WD system, complete with high and low range and hill descent mode for added off road capability.

Inside, the Revel’s unique features start with a floorplan designed around a Power Lift Bed with a 140 cu. ft. gear garage below. This allows for a 49 x 79 inch cross coach sleeping area. A full galley, including a 2.5 cu. ft. refrigerator, makes meal prep a breeze, while the all in one bath and gear closet boasts a cassette style toilet that eliminates the need for a separate black water holding tank. Add a standard solar power system that is expandable to 510 watts, diesel powered heating, a dinette with a pull-up table that converts to additional sleeping space, and many more innovative features and the result is the new Revel: quite simply the most off road capable RV Winnebago has ever built.

Storage and living space are maximized by the flared body and Power Lift Bed that converts to a 49 x 79 inch sleeping surface. Welded aluminum cabinet face frames, dual pane windows with insulated shades, snap in screens for fresh air circulation, and an available roof mounted AC system all contribute to the Revel’s off the grid livability.

Lichtsinn RV, America’s closest dealer to Winnebago Industries, has been named Top North American Winnebago Dealer by Winnebago Industries for the last four consecutive years. We proudly sell New RVs manufactured by Winnebago Industries as well as Used RVs.

In this week’s #TipTuesday, we go over how to pair your phone with your infotainment center via Bluetooth. Watch the video below.

Lichtsinn RV, America’s closest dealer to Winnebago Industries, has been named Top North American Winnebago Dealer by Winnebago Industries for the last four consecutive years. We proudly sell New RVs manufactured by Winnebago Industries as well as Used RVs.

The Winnebago Revel opened up a new world of RVing possibilities with its launch in October 2017. The Revel is the first of its kind, a true 4×4 RV designed for outdoor enthusiasts taking a no-nonsense approach to adventure with straightforward design and function-forward features. There are several reasons why the Winnebago Revel is a great RV, read our top five below.

True, Off-Road RV – If you are looking for a vehicle that can take you off the beaten path and away from the traditional campground the Revel is the perfect vehicle for you! The Revel is built on the 4×4 Mercedes-Benz with a 3.0L V6 turbo-charged diesel engine, with adaptive ESP. The adaptive ESP selectively brakes individual wheels, providing increased traction, enhanced directional stability, and road adhesion in rougher terrain. The optional stylized wheels and BFGoodrich T/A K02 all-terrain tires have tougher sidewalls, a long treadlife and aggressive all-terrain traction providing a solid grip for traveling off-the-beaten path.

Room to Bring all your Gear – The Revel was designed for the outdoor enthusiast who have several hobbies that require a lot of flexible storage solutions. The power lift bed with gear garage is a key storage spot in the Revel, providing 140 cu. ft. of storage space. The all-in-one gear closet and wet bath provides a spot for wet storage and includes three bamboo removable shelves, a removable clothes rod, and a bamboo shower mat.

Four-Season Capabilities – The Revel is Winnebago’s first truly four-season capable RV. The Revel includes several features that enable RVs to enjoy extended season camping. The first, is the Revel’s additional insulation. Winnebago Industries has partnered up with the same component manufacturers that General Motors, Mercedes-Benz and The Ford Motor Company has used, using Automotive Grade Foam Insulation. This insulation has an R-rating of 4.4 per sq. inch so it won’t settle as you are going off-road or off the grid. It also does not maintain odor and is built to provide the same R-value for the lifetime of the vehicle. This insulation meets automotive fire and safety standards. The insulation is engineered for noise reduction and thermal insulation and is not susceptible to moisture retention or mold. The second is the Espar diesel-fired hydronic heating system that provides continuous, unlimited hot water that will heat the coach, and the holding tanks to keep them from freezing.

RV Off-the-Grid – If you are looking for a coach that will allow you to RV off-the-grid and away from the traditional campground the Revel is the perfect coach for you! The Revel comes with 3 deep-cycle AGM group 31 batteries that are rated for 315 amp hours of power. The Revel also comes standard with 200-watts of solar and a 2 kilowatt pure sine wave inverter to safely power your electronics. One of the most unique features in the Winnebago Revel is the diesel-fired hydronic heating system that we previously mentioned. This system enables the Revel to be powered by a single fuel source – diesel fuel.

Winnebago’s Superior Experience Manufacturing RVs – Winnebago has been building RVs for over 60 years and can manufacture better-fitting, molded parts that DIYers or one-off chassis upfitters are not able to. The Revel is also supported by Winnebago’s dealer network which allows customers to qualify for long-term, low-interest financing through a RV loan. It is more difficult and often more expensive to secure financing to purchase a van from a DIYer or van body upfitter rather than an RV dealer.

Those are our five reasons why the Winnebago Revel is a great RV. Click here to see our Revel Revealed page for videos, blog posts, gear, and more specifically for the Winnebago Revel.

Lichtsinn RV, America’s closest dealer to Winnebago Industries, has been named Top North American Winnebago Dealer by Winnebago Industries for the last four consecutive years. We proudly sell New RVs manufactured by Winnebago Industries as well as Used RVs. See our Winnebago Revel inventory here.

The true 4×4 RV opens up a world of possibilities! Now with enhanced safety features from Mercedes Benz including blind spot monitoring, collision prevention assist, lane keeping assist and much more! Designed specifically for active outdoor enthusiasts, the all new Winnebago Revel takes a no nonsense approach to adventure with a straightforward design and function-driven features. Taking full advantage of the proven 4×4 Mercedes Benz Sprinter chassis, the Revel’s 3.0 litre turbo diesel puts 325 lbs ft of torque through an on-demand 4WD system, complete with high and low range and hill descent mode for added off road capability.

Lichtsinn RV’s November webcast covered the 2019 Winnebago Revel and we received several great questions throughout the webcast. Below we highlighted a few of our top questions.

Who are the competitors of the Revel and why is the Revel a better choice?

Before the Revel was launched, consumers relied on third-party van outfitters like Sportsmobile to build campervans like the Revel. With third-party van outfitters, consumers would have to purchase the van body from a Mercedes dealer then they would have to take it to a third-party van outfitter to do a custom van conversion. These custom conversions took a significant amount of time to complete typically up to a year. Consumers also ran into difficulties purchasing the customized van because there were not options to finance the vehicle like there are with the Winnebago Revel. Consumers were having to take a loan out to purchase the van and then wait and take out another loan for the upfit. The Winnebago Revel solved that problem because it is a recreational vehicle so consumers are able to take advantage of RV financing.

Is the Winnebago Revel a four season RV?

It is absolutely four-season capable due to the four wheel drive, espar heating, and insulation.

20% Tougher Sidewalls: Featuring Proven CoreGard Technology to take on the toughest road hazards with confidence.

Longer Treadlife to extend your adventure.

Aggressive All-Terrain Traction to confidently get you where you want to go.

Espar Heating: The diesel-fired heating system provides continuous, unlimited hot water that will heat the coach, and the holding tanks to keep them from freezing.

Insulation: Winnebago Industries has partnered up with the same component manufacturers that General Motors, Mercedes Benz and The Ford Motor Company has used, using Automotive Grade Foam Insulation. This insulation has an R-rating of 4.4 per sq inch so it won’t settle as you are going off-road or off the grid. It also does not maintain odor and is built to provide the same R-value for the lifetime of the vehicle. This insulation meets automotive fire and safety standards. The insulation is engineered for noise reduction and thermal insulation and is not susceptible to moisture retention or mold.

Has the Diesel-Fired Hydronic Heating System always been on the Winnebago Revel?

Yes, it has been on the Revel since the introduction. You can learn more about the Espar diesel-fired hydronic heating system here.

What kind of wheels do you get if you don’t get the upgraded wheels, and what does Lichtsinn RV see guests ordering?

Lichtsinn RV stocks all our Revels with the upgraded performance wheels and BF Goodrich® T/A® KO2 all-terrain tire. You can learn more about the upgraded wheels and tires here. If you don’t get the upgraded wheels you will get 16″ painted steel wheels with stock tires.

Can Lichtsinn RV add Alumniness racks?

Yes, Lichtsinn RV partnered with Aluminess to install the specialized racks. You can see them here.

Can you add an Easy-Start to the optional Coleman-Mach Air Conditioner in the Winnebago Revel?

An Easy-Start is an aftermarket accessory that works with the Coleman-Mach air conditioning system that allows you to use a lower wattage, lighter portable generator to power the air conditioner. However, with the easy-start when you fire it up it is a maximum draw and takes more power to start up than a larger generator like the Honda 2,000 generator which is what we see on most RVs.

What are the off-the-grid capabilities with the batteries in the Revel?

The Revel comes with three deep cycle AGM absorbed glass mat maintenance free RV batteries, with a 315 AMP hour bank. When our guests are camping off-the-grid they aren’t using the batteries as much and are relying on the diesel-fired hydronic heating system which is extremely efficient.

What are the differences between the 2019 Winnebago Revel and the 2018 Winnebago Revel?

In 2019, Winnebago added a new safety enhancement package that includes:

Lichtsinn RV, America’s closest dealer to Winnebago Industries, has been named Top North American Winnebago Dealer by Winnebago Industries for the last four consecutive years. We proudly sell New RVs manufactured by Winnebago Industries as well as Used RVs. See our Winnebago Revel inventory here.

Best known for its larger motor homes, Winnebago has surprised the RV world with the introduction of its Revel 4×4 camper van — a Mercedes Benz Sprinter-based rig outfitted for rugged outdoor sport and camping trips.

The Revel 4×4 is designed to take you and your bikes, skis, climbing equipment, backpacks or other gear out into the backcountry while giving you a comfortable retreat to rest those achy muscles and bed down for the night.

Notable for its straightforward design and function-driven features, the Revel is powered by Mercedes’ 188-horsepower, 3.0-liter, six-cylinder turbo diesel engine. It pushes 325 lb.-ft. of torque through a five-speed automatic transmission to all four wheels via an on-demand 4WD system, complete with high/low range gearing and hill descent mode for added off-road capability.

Other features include electronic stability, traction control and four-wheel ABS braking. BF Goodrich T/A KO2 all-terrain tires provide the needed grip to deal with rough terrain.

While Winnebago pioneered the use of Sprinter-based road-touring vans, this brawny off-road-capable model, with a relatively short 144-inch wheelbase (19.5 feet overall length) and almost 6 inches of additional ground clearance, is definitely aimed at expanding the market to reach a younger, sports and adventure-oriented crowd.

Photo courtesy of Winnebago Industries

The Revel features an innovative rear-mounted power-lift bed that lifts away to the ceiling to clear out a 140-cubic-foot (4 square-meter) gear garage for bikes, boards and backpacks. Double doors provide for easy loading, and six removable cargo tie downs can be implemented to help keep everything in place on bumpy terrain. At night, the 49-by-79-inch bed lowers down at the push of a button.

Off-the-grid adventures are aided by a 200-watt roof-mounted solar-powered electrical system (no LP gas or 110V power required) tied to three 105Ah deep-cycle AGM batteries to power onboard equipment.

Also roof-mounted is a low-profile, high-efficiency 13,500 BTU air conditioner. Continuous, unlimited hot water comes via an Eberspaecher hydronic heater with a diesel burner. It draws from the main diesel fuel tank to heat a glycol mixture that circulates through heat exchangers for both coach heat and continuous hot water. This system also heats freshwater and gray tanks in subfreezing conditions.

Additional outside features include a roof rack with a moveable ladder that allows access from various locations around the coach. Other neat pluses include an electric awning with built-in LED lighting and a wind-retraction system, side and rear screen doors and an exterior hot/cold shower.

Photo courtesy of Winnebago Industries

Burly on the outside, the Revel’s interior features all the typical motor home amenities. A galley and wet bath are located across from one another, just in front of the rear bed.

The all-electric galley features a glass-covered single-burner induction cooktop, 2.5-cubic foot compressor fridge/freezer and a stainless-steel sink with a waste filtration system. Also, part of the galley package includes a flip-up countertop extension, spacious storage drawers and a pantry.

Up front, a folding dinette table pulls up between the front-facing bench and rear-swiveling cab seats. The table/seats also can be converted into a single bed.

Standard cabin features include a 6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, rear-view camera, adjustable front seats with armrests and lumbar support, and keyless remote entry. A JBL premium sound system and 9-inch infotainment center with Rand McNally RV GPS, Sirius XM radio and Bluetooth are available as an option.

With a base price of $134,799, the Revel may be out of the question for #vanlifers hoping to do things on the cheap — but it is a well-designed, top-quality off-road/off-grid package that looks to be just the thing for those who can afford it.

Lichtsinn RV, America’s closest dealer to Winnebago Industries, has been named Top North American Winnebago Dealer by Winnebago Industries for the last four consecutive years. We proudly sell New RVs manufactured by Winnebago Industries as well as Used RVs. See our Winnebago Revel inventory here.

For the first time in over a year, Lichtsinn RV has in-stock Revels available for purchase now! See our in-stock Revel inventory here.

Designed specifically for active outdoor enthusiasts, the all new Winnebago Revel takes a no-nonsense approach to adventure with a straight-forward design and function-driven features. Taking full advantage of the proven 4×4 Mercedes Benz Sprinter chassis, the Revel’s 3.0 litre turbo diesel puts 325 lbs ft of torque through an on-demand 4WD system, complete with high and low range and hill descent mode for added off road capability.

Inside, the Revel’s unique features start with a floorplan designed around a Power Lift Bed with a 140 cu. ft. gear garage below. This allows for a 49 x 79 inch cross coach sleeping area. A full galley, including a 2.5 cu. ft. refrigerator, makes meal prep a breeze, while the all in one bath and gear closet boasts a cassette style toilet that eliminates the need for a separate black water holding tank. Add a standard solar power system that is expandable to 510 watts, diesel powered heating, a dinette with a pull-up table that converts to additional sleeping space, and many more innovative features and the result is the new Revel: quite simply the most off road capable RV Winnebago has ever built.

Storage and living space are maximized by the flared body and Power Lift Bed that converts to a 49 x 79 inch sleeping surface. Welded aluminum cabinet face frames, dual pane windows with insulated shades, snap in screens for fresh air circulation, and an available roof mounted AC system all contribute to the Revel’s off the grid livability.

This coach is powered by the tried and true Mercedes-Benz power train:

1. Mercedes Benz 3.0 litre six cylinder turbo diesel

2. 325 lb ft of torque or power

3. 188 horsepower

4. Five speed automatic transmission with grade braking capability

5. On-demand 4WD with low range, to selectively stop individual wheels if wheel spin is detected. The system can be safely driven on dry pavement without the risk of damaging differential locks.

3. Continuous unlimited hot water heater via the hydronic Espar heat and hot water source. The diesel burner uses the main diesel fuel tank to heat a glycol mixture that is circulated thru heat exchangers for coach heat, and flow adjusted continuous hot water. This also then heats the freshwater and gray tanks in subfreezing temps.

4. 30 amp electrical service

5. 13,500 BTU low profile high efficiency air conditioning system

6. Winnebago exclusive movable ladder and roof rack allows access from various locations around the coach

7. Power 10 ft patio awning

8. Whole house 2,000 watt inverter, wired to all outlets including the induction cook top

13. Insulated and heated freshwater and gray tank is mounted in an insulated housing and heated by the hydronic heating system

14. Exterior wash station and service center with city water hookup, diverter valve, drainage vales, sewer hose valve and exterior wash station with pump switch

15. TrueLevel holding tank monitoring system

16. Winterization package, for storage, as the coach is four season ready

Lichtsinn RV, America’s closest dealer to Winnebago Industries, has been named Top North American Winnebago Dealer by Winnebago Industries for the last four consecutive years. We proudly sell New RVs manufactured by Winnebago Industries as well as Used RVs. See our Winnebago Revel inventory here.

A new study conducted by CBRE Hotels Advisory Group has found that RV vacations cost much less than other types of vacation travel, even when factoring in fuel prices and the cost of RV ownership. According to the study, commissioned by Go RVing and the RV Industry Association, there are cost savings of 21 to 64 percent for a four-person travel party, while a two-person travel party saves 8 percent to 53 percent, depending on factors such as the type of RV and type of vacation.

“The study reaffirms that RVs are a great way to save on family travel, and it’s equally important to remember that RV ownership provides benefits that go well beyond affordability,” says RV Industry Association president Frank Hugelmeyer. “To take an RV trip is to experience togetherness with family and friends, along with the flexibility to travel whenever and wherever you want.”

The CBRE study analyzes vacation costs using two sets of hypothetical travel groups: a four-person travel party of two adults and two children, and a two-person travel party of two adults. CBRE analyzed major costs these hypothetical travelers incur traveling to nine popular vacation destinations. For each destination, researchers analyzed vacations lasting 3, 7 and 14 days.

The study compared different methods of travel, including a folding camping trailer; a lightweight travel trailer; a compact motorhome; a type C motorhome; a type A motorhome; traveling in a personal car, staying at hotels/motels, and eating meals in a restaurant; traveling by airline, renting a car at the destination, staying at hotels/motels, and eating meals in restaurants; and traveling in a personal car or airline (as appropriate), staying at a rental house/condominium, and eating the majority of meals in the rental unit. The type A motorhome, typically the largest and most luxurious RV, was compared to travel options such as flying first class, renting a premium car, staying in upscale hotels/resorts, and eating meals in restaurants.

RV vacations show a clear family budget benefit over other forms of travel, regardless of the RV type. According to the CBRE study, a four-person travel party can expect to save (by unit type):

The study included analysis of how fluctuations in fuel prices could affect the economic advantages of RV travel. Researchers found that for a four-person travel party it would take a rise in fuel prices to nearly $13 per gallon for a Type C motorhome vacation to be more expensive than the least expensive non-RV vacation. None of the fuel increase scenarios for a four-person travel party resulted in other RV vacation types being more expensive than the least expensive non-RV vacation.

For a two-person travel party, fuel prices would still need to rise significantly (from $5.50 to more than $13 per gallon) from current levels for RVing to lose its economic advantage.

“While fuel costs are a component of the overall vacation cost, it isn’t significant enough to materially affect the outcome of our analysis,” says Kannan Sankaran, managing director of CBRE’s Advisory Services, and lead researcher.